Description:There were six Black Gang men who worked producing lamp black by burning creosote in three sets of burning chambers at the United Lamp Black Works, Four Ashes. They were assisted by four men who transported the lamp black across the yard to the packing machine. Standing second from left is Bill Amison, the Foreman. With him are Jack Ward, Frank Bradbury, Albert Connolly, 'Pipe' Jones and Bob Lanchbury. They worked in pairs in each of the three chambers.
Founded as United Lamp Black Company Ltd. during the Second World War, the company produced fine carbon powder. It was used in the manufacture of carbon paper for office use, and to create a smooth playing surface on 78rpm and early LP records. It was also an essential component in tyre manufacture, helping to prevent tyre walls overheat, so the company probably supplied the Goodyear tyre factory in Bushbury. Carbon powder was also suppled to GEC in Stafford. During the 1960s it was taken over by a US company, Columbian Carbon. The works closed in 1979.
Since 2005 it has been the site of Four Ashes Industrial Estate.